HE Speaker of the Shura Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud welcomed his election as president of 140th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and its accompanying meetings, stressing that the more important concern is how to contribute in solving problems and providing suitable conditions for peoples who need support.
His Excellency said that the union represents the will of the people, highlighting that the number of participants reached a record for previous meetings, reflecting the confidence of the international community in the State of Qatar and the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
His Excellency stressed that the parliamentary experience of the State of Qatar began long ago, highlighting that the Shura Council plays a major role in discussing national issues as well as international ones. The Council's efforts have been praised by many parliamentarians, he added. He also referenced the remarks made by President of the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament who said that this year's participation is the highest he has seen since he first participated in the meetings back in 1978. He said that such presence reflects Qatar's strong parliamentary presence.
His Excellency noted that Qatari women have become members of the Shura Council, highlighting the large number of competent members including Reem Al Mansoori, who was voted president of the 29th session of the Forum of Women Parliamentarians.
He pointed out that it is the first time for parliament speakers of major countries to take part, which reflected their keenness to come to the State of Qatar. His Excellency expressed his delight with this appreciation, and with the participation of the representatives of the peoples of the world who came to see the major steps taken by the State of Qatar taken on the path to sustainable development and progress.
His Excellency highlighted the role the State of Qatar played in choosing the discussion theme for this year which focuses on enhancing education to establish peace, security, and the rule of law. His Excellency highlighted that education was the foundation for development, noting that the State of Qatar's wise policies chose that route with the goal of mobilizing the international community to help advance education in order to address many of the great problems facing the world.